Florence, SC

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When I need a charming day trip or a relaxing weekend in the Carolinas, I head straight to Florence. You’ll feel the warmth the moment you arrive—from the friendly people to the laid-back pace. I love how Florence blends culture, history, and parks in one easygoing package. Whether you’re into art, Civil War stories, or simply wandering downtown with a coffee in hand, you’ll find your rhythm here.

Florence, SC Highlights:

Florence County Museum: I’ve spent hours here soaking in regional art and history. You’ll enjoy the mix—from Civil War relics to contemporary local artists. It’s one of those places that makes you slow down and really take it in.
Timmonsville’s Darlington Raceway: Even if you’re not a diehard NASCAR fan, this place surprised me. You should visit the museum—it’s full of racing heritage and has that old-school Southern grit you won’t forget.
Florence Veterans Park: I always stop here for a moment of reflection. The monuments are powerful, and you’ll appreciate the peaceful landscaping and thoughtful design as you stroll through.
Timmonsville’s Florence Motor Speedway: I caught a Saturday race once and the energy was incredible. If you’re around on a race weekend, you should check it out—it’s fast, loud, and pure fun.
Downtown Florence: I love wandering these revitalized streets. You’ll find colorful murals, cozy boutiques, art galleries, and some surprisingly great food. I always leave with something new—either a handmade find or a great meal memory.

Best Time to Visit

If you’re asking me, I say go in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). That’s when the weather is perfect for walking tours, outdoor markets, and festivals. I’ve done both seasons and always enjoy the mild temps and festive vibe.

How to Get There

If you’re driving: I usually hop on I-95 or I-20—it’s a breeze. Florence is just 90 minutes from Columbia and around 2 hours from Charleston or Charlotte. You’ll find it easy to plan a weekend around.
By Air: I’ve flown into Florence Regional Airport (FLO) a couple of times—it’s small and convenient, especially with flights connecting through Charlotte. You’ll be downtown in no time.
By Train: If you like the scenic route, Amtrak’s Silver Meteor and Palmetto lines both stop here. I took the train once and it was a relaxing, no-stress way to arrive.

Where to Stay

Hotel Florence, Tapestry Collection by Hilton – I stayed here for a weekend and loved the boutique feel. You’ll get historic charm plus modern perks—and the location can’t be beat for exploring downtown.
Hyatt Place Florence Downtown – If you want something sleek and central, this is a great choice. I recommend it for its modern vibe and walkable location—you’ll be close to everything.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Florence – I usually suggest this one to families. You’ll get spacious suites, a pool, and easy access to the highway. It’s a solid base if you’re doing a lot of day trips around the region.